Hospital Trust Director Wins National Award for Financial Excellence
A hospital director has been recognized for her exceptional contributions to healthcare finance, receiving a prestigious national award. Carol McInnes, Director of Planning and Transformation at The Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust (SaTH), was named 'Finance Champion of the Year' at the Healthcare Financial Management Association (HFMA) Awards.
The award celebrates individuals who demonstrate outstanding dedication and innovative initiatives within their organizations. Carol's leadership in financial recovery at SaTH, which operates the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital and Princess Royal Hospital, has been transformative and cost-effective.
Carol's journey in healthcare management began as a specialist nurse in 2009. She joined SaTH in 2016 as Director of Operations for Medicine and Emergency Care and later moved to the Women and Children's division in 2021. In her current role, she collaborates with colleagues to enhance efficiency while ensuring patient safety and quality.
The judges praised Carol's ability to engage and inspire her team, highlighting her 'skill and humility' in leading the recovery, transformation, and cost improvement efforts. They described her as a 'role model driving momentum and optimism for the future' and an 'exceptional finance champion'.
SaTH's Deputy Chief Nurse, Kara Blackwell, was also recognized, receiving a commendation in the 'Working with Finance - Clinician of the Year' category. Carol and her team have successfully built strong relationships with system partners, sharing their expertise and supporting other NHS providers.
Carol expressed her gratitude, emphasizing that the award belongs to the entire team's collective efforts over the years. She stated, 'SaTH is heading in the right direction, and it's rewarding to see our progress recognized on a national stage.'
Adam Winstanley, Acting Director of Finance, praised Carol's dedication, stating, 'Carol's hard work and commitment have earned her this well-deserved national recognition. As a Trust, we strive to achieve financial stability while delivering the best patient care. Carol's efforts are instrumental in this challenging endeavor.'
The Trust has made significant progress, achieving £24.9 million in efficiency savings this year and is on track to meet its target of £41.4 million for 2025/2026. Adam's pride in Carol and her colleagues' behind-the-scenes contributions adds to the success story.
